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Pernod Ricard acquires majority stake in cru classé Provençal rosé

03 March 2022 By Louis Thomas

Pernod Ricard, the world’s second largest seller of wines and spirits, have reached an agreement to acquire a majority stake in Château Sainte Marguerite, with the transaction due to be completed in the coming months.

The move comes as the drinks giant looks to focus on growing its premium wine division.

Under the ownership of the Fayard family since 1977, the Provençal estate received cru classé designation in 1955, and is now one of 18 cru classés in Côtes de Provence. Known for their premium rosé, made from a blend of Grenache and Cinsault, the 91 hectare estate recently partnered with actor Idris Elba, supplying a 2019 vintage for his Porte Noire wine label.

Olivier Fayard is expected to continue to lead operations, whilst Deputy Managing Director Cyril Claquin will oversee integration into the Pernod Ricard fold. Jean-Pierre Fayard, family patriarch and current president of the Côtes de Provence La Londe Association, which works to promote the wines of the designation, commented that it marked “a milestone in development…thanks to the expertise of Pernod Ricard and its incredible distribution network.”

Château Sainte Marguerite will be joining Pernod Ricard’s luxury portfolio, which includes names such as Champagne producer Perrier-Jouët.

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